In 1983, India received its first Oscar. Can you identify the film that earned this distinction?
Oscars 2024: The moment that film stars eagerly awaited has finally arrived. In just a short while, the commencement of the 96th Academy Awards will be announced at the Dolby Theatre in California. Audiences around the world are on the edge of their seats, wondering which film will receive awards in various categories this year. But did you know when India won its first Oscar trophy? Let’s delve into the details…
India clinched its first Oscar in the year 1983. At the 55th Academy Awards, the film ‘Gandhi’ secured India’s maiden Oscar award for Best Costume Design. Bhanu Athaiya, in collaboration with John Mollo, crafted the splendid costume design for the film. It’s worth noting that ‘Gandhi’ was a Hollywood film, marking the first time an Indian received recognition at the Oscars through this film.
Following the win, Bhanu Athaiya expressed that she wasn’t expecting the happiness that came with winning the award. In an interview, she revealed that even before the announcement, many people had already predicted that she would be the winner. ‘Gandhi’ was an exceptionally well-received film, garnering a total of eight awards, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing, Best Lead Actor, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Costume Design.
Apart from the winners, nominees also receive a special gift bag worth millions. This year, the estimated value of the bag, containing over 50 items, is around 1.4 crore. Notably, the bag includes a luxurious vacation to a Ski Chalet in Switzerland, valued at 41 lakh. The cheapest item in the bag is a Rubik’s Cube, priced at 1200 rupees. It’s important to mention that the entire expense of this gift bag is covered by Distinct Asset, a marketing company based in Los Angeles, and not by the Oscar organizers.
This year, the film ‘To Kill a Tiger’ is the only Indian film nominated at the Oscars 2024.
